Alabama Poets Unite for Winter Meeting in Troy on January 31

Poets from across Alabama will convene in Troy for the Alabama State Poetry Society’s Winter Meeting on January 31, 2024. The event will take place at the Johnson Center for the Arts, located at 300 E. Walnut Street. The gathering aims to foster poetic expression and community among both established and emerging poets.

Founded in 1968, the Alabama State Poetry Society (ASPS) has worked diligently to promote poetry throughout the state. Its initiatives include contests, workshops, readings, and the publication of its quarterly newsletter, Muse Messenger. The Winter Meeting serves as a platform for poets to engage in society business, share their work, and seek professional development.

Dargan Ware, president of the ASPS, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event. “ASPS is excited to bring our winter meeting, featuring a workshop by member poet Shannon Milliman, to Troy,” he stated. Ware also acknowledged the valuable support from the Troy Arts Council, which is assisting with event logistics and volunteer coordination.

The meeting is set to run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is open to both ASPS members and non-members. To accommodate a wider audience, a Zoom option will also be available for those unable to attend in person. Advance registration is encouraged, with fees varying based on membership status and attendance format. Interested participants can register online at https://www.alpoets.org/event-details.

Support for the event extends beyond the ASPS and the Troy Arts Council. The Troy Tourism Office is actively involved in planning and coordination efforts to ensure a warm welcome for visiting poets. This collaboration highlights the community’s commitment to celebrating and nurturing artistic expression.

As the Winter Meeting approaches, anticipation builds among poets and poetry enthusiasts alike. The event promises an enriching experience, emphasizing the importance of poetry in fostering connection and creativity within the community.